The Next Step
Modica, 2022
8/10
The bassist Roberto Occhipinti has made quite an impression in his home country of Canada as well as internationally, and this 6th album as leader has the artist exploring classic jazz ideas, where he brings along Adrean Farrugia (piano), Larnell Lewis (drums) and Ilaria Crociante (vocals) for the 9 adventurous tracks.
“The Next Step” opens the listen with Occhipinti’s elegant bass creating much atmosphere as the meticulous keys enter the dynamic climate, and “Emancipation Day” follows with frisky drumming and bouncy bass making for a very stylish and timeless jazz delivery.
In the middle, “II Muro” brings a very lush and uplifting display of swift drums, dancing keys and strategic bass, while “O Cessate Di Piagarmi”, the lone song with vocals, recruits Ilaria Crociante’s gorgeous and soulful pipes for the stunning album highlight.
“Steveland” and “A Tynerish Swing” exit the listen, where the former is a dreamy, dizzying 7+ minutes, and the latter swings playfully with vivid piano, firm drums and Occhipinti’s inimitable bass acrobatics.
Occhipinti certainly proves why he’s been the recipient of 5 Juno Awards, as this first trio project as leader has him exploring all the characteristics of jazz, past and present, that we will never tire of.
Travels well with: Jeff Rupert With George Garzone- The Ripple; Dave Young Quartet- Ides Of March